Fluid delivery system for use with an endoscope

ABSTRACT

A fluid delivery system for use with an endoscope. Certain embodiments of the invention include a single, large fluid source and pump installed upon an operator console, in combination with a small fluid reservoir and pump installed within a proximal connector of the imaging endoscope, multiple fluid sources that feed a common fluid channel that are pressurized by a common pump, multiple fluid sources that feed dedicated fluid channels that are pressurized by dedicated pumps, and a small fluid reservoir and pump installed within a handheld manual controller of the imaging endoscope. The fluid delivery endoscopic systems of the present invention provide the user with the flexibility of changing fluids either in advance of a procedure or on-the-fly as needed, instead of relying on fixed fluid sources only.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/614,868, filed Sep. 30, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to medical devices, in general, and fluid delivery mechanisms for therapeutic and diagnostic endoscopes, in particular.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As an aid to the early detection of disease, it has become well established that there are major public health benefits that result from regular endoscopic examination of internal structures, such as the alimentary canals and airways, e.g., the esophagus, stomach, lungs, colon, uterus, ureter, kidney, and other organ systems. A conventional imaging endoscope used for such procedures is formed of a flexible tube that has a fiber optic light guide that directs illuminating light from an external light source to the distal tip, where it exits the endoscope and illuminates the tissue to be examined. Frequently, additional optical components are incorporated, in order to adjust the spread of light exiting the fiber bundle at the distal tip. An objective lens and fiber optic imaging light guide communicating with a camera at the proximal end of the endoscope or an imaging camera chip installed at the distal tip produces an image that is displayed to the examiner. In addition, most endoscopes include one or more working channels, through which medical devices, such as biopsy forceps, snares, fulguration probes, and other tools, may be passed.

Navigating the endoscope through complex and tortuous paths in a way that produces minimum pain, side effects, risk, or sedation to the patient is critical to the success of the examination. To this end, modern endoscopes include means for deflecting the distal tip of the endoscope to follow the pathway of the structure under examination, with minimum deflection or friction force upon the surrounding tissue. By manipulating a set of control knobs, the examiner is able to steer the endoscope during insertion and direct it to a region of interest, in spite of the limitations of such traditional control systems, which may be clumsy, non-intuitive, and friction-limited.

In any endoscopic procedure, there is almost always a need for the introduction and evacuation of different types of fluids, such as water, saline, drugs, contrast material, dyes, or emulsifiers. For example, one endoscopic procedure is a colonoscopy, which is an internal examination of the colon by means of an instrument called a colonoscope. In colonoscopy procedures, typically, 5-10% of patients who arrive for the procedure are inadequately prepared (i.e., the colon is not properly cleared) and are, therefore, turned away. Some patients who are only marginally unprepared can be fully prepared by a physician or their assistant administering doses of liquid and aspirating the colon. However, these procedures are made more difficult and time consuming because it requires the physician to flush and evacuate stool or other debris, which represents a loss of productivity.

Another endoscopic procedure is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), which is an examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper duodenum by means of an endoscope that is inserted down the throat. During an EGD procedure, the mixing of bile and water creates a lot of captivating bubbles. These bubbles hinder the physician's visibility during the procedure. As a result, a liquid is often introduced to help reduce the bubbles and, thus, improve visibility.

Yet another endoscopic procedure is an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which is an endoscopic procedure used to identify stones, tumors, or narrowing in the bile ducts. In an ERCP procedure, fluids are used to flush away bleeding from sites. In addition, it is sometimes helpful to introduce dyes for providing contrast to the site. Contrast material, or contrast dye, is a substance used to make specific organs, blood vessels, or types of tissue (such as tumors) more visible on X-rays. Common contrast material substances include iodine, barium, and gadolinium.

Conventional endoscopes allow the introduction of liquids via a separate delivery device, such as a syringe or injection catheter that is passed through its working channel, in order to deliver the liquid to the distal tip of the endoscope to the target site within a patient's body. This liquid delivery method involves several steps that include, for example, the user selecting a large capacity syringe (e.g., up to 100cc), the user pouring a desired liquid into a bowl, the user drawing the liquid into the syringe, the user attaching the syringe to the working channel of the endoscope, and the user squeezing the liquid out of the syringe. This cumbersome and time-consuming process is repeated for any and all types of liquids required in any given endoscopic procedure.

To overcome these and other problems, there is a need for an endoscope having a simplified way to introduce one or more liquids, such as water, saline, drugs, contrast material, dyes, or emulsifiers, that are used in endoscopic procedures, such as a colonoscopy procedure, an EGD procedure, or an ERCP procedure, etc. The endoscopic system should have improved simplicity and ease of use, increased efficiency, and greater clinical productivity and patient throughput. Furthermore, there is a need for improved control of the delivery rate of a liquid and improved mechanisms for mixing two or more fluids. Finally, there is a need for an endoscope that can deliver one or more liquids during a procedure and be inexpensive enough to manufacture that the device can be disposable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a fluid delivery system for use with an endoscope. The fluid delivery system includes an imaging endoscope that may be used in combination with multiple fluid delivery mechanisms. In one embodiment, the imaging endoscope may be designed such that it is sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture, such that it may be considered a single-use, disposable item.

Certain embodiments of the invention include a single, large fluid source and pump installed upon a reusable operator console in combination with a small, fluid reservoir and pump installed within a proximal connector of the imaging endoscope. Other embodiments of the invention include multiple fluid sources that feed a common fluid channel and that are pressurized by a common pump. Yet other embodiments of the invention include multiple fluid sources that feed dedicated fluid channels that are pressurized by dedicated pumps, respectively. Yet other embodiments of the invention include a small, fluid reservoir and pump installed within a handheld manual controller of the imaging endoscope. The multi-fluid endoscopic systems of the present invention provide the user with the flexibility of changing fluids either in advance of a procedure or on-the-fly as needed, instead of relying on fixed fluid sources only. Furthermore, the arrangement of fluid sources, pumps and valves within the multi-fluid endoscopic systems of the present invention provide a controlled fluid delivery rate and a controlled way of mixing fluids.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, the endoscope includes a proximal connector, including a manifold that delivers a fluid to one or more lumens in the endoscope. Valve spools are selectively actuated to deliver a pressurized liquid to one or more of its lumens.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-fluid endoscopic system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an endoscope proximal connector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method of using a multi-fluid endoscopic system of the present invention during a colonoscopy procedure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-fluid endoscopic system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-fluid endoscopic system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a handheld manual controller that includes a local fluid reservoir in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the integrated fluid reservoir that is installed, optionally, within the handheld manual controller of FIG. 6 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a single use endoscope having a proximal connector positioned on a reusable control unit in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate further details of a proximal connector;

FIG. 9C illustrates a rear surface of a proximal connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a cutaway view of the proximal connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10B illustrates a circuit board retaining feature of the proximal connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate a manifold within the proximal connector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a valve spool within a manifold in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a vacuum line and valve within a manifold in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 14 illustrates a pressure relief valve within a manifold in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an endoscopic system 100 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. The endoscopic system 100 includes an imaging endoscope 110 that further includes an endoscope proximal shaft 112 that is electrically, mechanically, and fluidly connected, at one end, to an endoscope proximal connector 114 and, at an opposite end, to a port of a handheld manual controller 116, and an endoscope distal shaft 118 that is electrically, mechanically, and fluidly connected, at one end, to another port of handheld manual controller 116 and that has an endoscope distal tip 120 located at its opposite end for advancing into a patient's body.

Imaging endoscope 110 is an instrument that allows for the examination of the interior of a tract, lumen or vessel or hollow organ of a patient. Imaging endoscope 110 further includes an illumination mechanism (not shown), an image sensor (not shown), and an elongate shaft that has one or more lumens located therein. Imaging endoscope 110 may be sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture, such that it is considered a single-use, disposable item, such as is described in reference to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/406,149 filed Apr. 1, 2003, Ser. No. 10/811,781, filed Mar. 29, 2004, and Ser. No. 10/956,007, filed Sep. 30, 2004, all assigned to Scimed Life Systems, Inc./Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc., which are incorporated herein by reference. The referenced patent applications describe an endoscope imaging system that includes a reusable control cabinet that has a number of actuators or a manually operated handle on the endoscope that controls the orientation of an endoscope that is connectable thereto. The endoscope is used with a single patient and is then disposed. The endoscope includes an illumination mechanism, an image sensor, and an elongate shaft that has one or more lumens located therein. An articulation joint at the distal end of the endoscope allows the distal end to be oriented by the actuators in the control cabinet or by manual control.

The endoscopic system 100 further includes an operator console 122 that is electrically connected to standard I/O devices, such as a video display (not shown) and a keyboard (not shown). A fluid source 124 is fluidly connected to the endoscope proximal connector 114 of imaging endoscope 110 via a length of tubing 126 that passes through a pump 128. Fluid source 124 serves as a reservoir that contains a supply of liquid, such as water or saline, for use during a medical procedure. Fluid source 124 may take the form of a rigid vessel or a bladder with a capacity of, for example, up to one liter of fluid. Fluid source 124 may be a refillable vessel, or alternatively, fluid source 124 is sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture, such that it is considered a single-use, disposable item. Tubing 126 is a length of any standard flexible tubing, for example, ¼-inch tubing, which is also sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture, such that it is considered a single-use, disposable item. Pump 128 is, for example, a standard peristaltic pump, that is used to withdraw liquid from fluid source 124 on demand. A peristaltic pump works by means of rollers on rotating arms that pinch the flexible tubing against an arc and, thus, move the fluid along. Pump 128 is capable of delivering, for example, up to 50 pounds/square inch (PSI) of pressure for a flow rate of, for example, 500 ml/min.

In one embodiment, the endoscope proximal connector 114 of imaging endoscope 110 is electrically and mechanically connected to the exterior of operator console 122, as shown in FIG. 1, via a quick-release mechanism for making and breaking all electrical, mechanical, and fluid/air/vacuum connections. The quick-release mechanism allows endoscope proximal connector 114 to be secured easily to the exterior of operator console 122. Endoscope proximal connector 114 includes wires and tubes that pass through endoscope proximal shaft 112, then through a handheld manual controller 116, then through endoscope distal shaft 118, and then to endoscope distal tip 120. Additionally, mounted within endoscope proximal connector 114 is a fluid reservoir 130 that has an associated pump (not shown) mounted within operator console 122. Endoscope proximal connector 114 and fluid reservoir 130 are described in more detail in reference to FIG. 2.

Endoscope proximal shaft 112 and endoscope distal shaft 118 are formed of a suitably lightweight, flexible material, such as polyurethane or other biocompatible materials. Endoscope proximal shaft 112 and endoscope distal shaft 118 are elongated shafts that have one or more lumens located therein and wiring located therein to support, for example, a working channel, a jet wash mechanism, an illumination mechanism, and an image sensor that are located at endoscope distal tip 120. Also included within handheld manual controller 116 and endoscope distal shaft 118 are the electrical and mechanical mechanisms for articulating endoscope distal tip 120 for advancing into a patient.

Handheld manual controller 116 of imaging endoscope 110 is a handheld device that is electrically and mechanically connected to operator console 122. Handheld manual controller 16 accepts inputs from a human operator via standard push buttons, rotary knobs, joysticks, or other activation devices, either singularly or in combination, to control the operation of imaging endoscope 110, which includes the delivery of pressurized liquid from fluid source 124. Alternatively, a user input device such as a keyboard or other user interface located remotely from the endoscope may accept inputs from a human operator to control the operation of the imaging endoscope 110, including the delivery of pressurized liquid from fluid source 124.

Operator console 122 is a special-purpose electronic and electromechanical apparatus that facilitates, processes, and manages all functions of multi-fluid endoscopic system 100. Operator console 122 is loaded with software for managing, for example, the operation of imaging endoscope 110 and its associated imaging electronics (not shown) in order to create and/or transfer images received from an image sensor within imaging endoscope 110 to the video display for viewing by a user. Operator console 122 further manages the operation of all pumps, such as pump 128.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of an exemplary endoscope proximal connector 114 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Endoscope proximal connector 114 includes a proximal connector housing 210 that is formed of a suitably lightweight, rigid material, such as molded plastic. An end of tubing 126, which is a single fluid channel, is split into an arrangement of multiple fluid channels 212, for example, a fluid channel 212 a, 212 b, 212 c, and 212 d. Fluid channels 212 a, 212 b, 212 c, and 212 d are fed separately into and along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120.

Fluid channels 212 a, 212 b, 212 c, and 212 d are used, for example, for supplying fluid, such as water, from fluid source 124 via pump 128 for (1) cooling light-emitting diodes (LEDs) (i.e., the illumination mechanism), (2) supplying a low pressure bolus wash, (3) supplying a high pressure jet wash, and (4) supplying a lens wash, all of which are located at endoscope distal tip 120. Multiple fluid channels 212 are controlled via multiple respective pinch valves 214. More specifically, fluid channels 212 a, 212 b, 212 c, and 212 d are controlled via pinch valves 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, and 214 d, respectively. Pinch valves 214 are standard valves, within which the flexible tubing of fluid channels 212 is pinched between one or more moving external elements, in order to stop the flow of fluid.

FIG. 2 also shows fluid reservoir 130 fitted into a recessed cavity 216 within endoscope proximal connector 114. Fluid reservoir 130 is fluidly connected to a fluid channel 218 that is fed into and along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 and delivers the fluid from fluid reservoir 130 to endoscope distal tip 120. The flow of fluid is controlled by a pinch valve 220 that is identical to pinch valves 214. Fluid reservoir 130 is in the form of, for example, a disposable, soft, flexible bag or bladder that is easily detachable from fluid channel 218. The capacity of liquid held within fluid reservoir 130 is relatively small, compared with the capacity of fluid source 124. Fluid reservoir 130 may be sized, for example, to hold a small quantity of irrigation liquids, contrast media, medication, or dyes for marking tissue. An access door (not shown) may be included within proximal connector housing 210 for installing or removing fluid reservoir 130 as needed before, after, or during a medical procedure. The liquid within fluid reservoir 130 may be pressurized with any well-known mechanisms, such as a piston (not shown) that pushes against the bladder that forms fluid reservoir 130. Additionally, electrical wires (not shown) pass through endoscope proximal connector 114 between handheld manual controller 116 and operator console 122 for controlling the flow of fluids via the combined functions of pinch valves 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, or 214 d and pump 128 and/or pinch valve 220 and the pressurizing mechanism of fluid reservoir 130.

In operation, and with continuing reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, pressurized fluids from fluid source 124 and/or fluid reservoir 130 are delivered along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120, on demand, under the control of electronics located within operator console 122. More specifically, pump 128 and the pressurizing mechanism of fluid reservoir 130 are activated, and the user controls the on-demand delivery of fluid, for example, to supply a low pressure bolus wash via the working channel of imaging endoscope 110, to supply a high pressure jet wash at endoscope distal tip 120, or to supply a lens wash at endoscope distal tip 120, all via push buttons on handheld manual controller 116 that control pinch valves 214 a, 214 b, 214 c, or 214 d. Additionally, the user controls the on-demand delivery of fluid from fluid reservoir 130 via a push button on handheld manual controller 116 that controls pinch valve 220 and the pressurizing mechanism (not shown) of fluid reservoir 130, for example, to deliver medication or dye through endoscope distal shaft 118 of imaging endoscope 110 and out of endoscope distal tip 120 to a tissue site within the patient. Pressurized fluids from fluid source 124 and/or fluid reservoir 130 may be delivered continuously to the endoscope distal tip 120 to supply cooling to the LEDs.

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method 300 of using multi-fluid endoscopic system 100 to handle a poorly prepared patient during a colonoscopy procedure in accordance with the invention. Method 300 and multi-fluid endoscopic system 100 are not limited to a colonoscopy procedure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the method steps of method 300 may be adapted easily to apply to any of the various medical procedures that use various types of fluid sources, respectively. Method 300 includes the steps of:

Step 310: Preparing the Patient

In this step, in a predetermined time period prior to the time of the colonoscopy procedure, a patient consumes a quantity of, for example, a phosphosoda solution or a colyte solution, which serves as a laxative to flush stool out of the patient's colon. Alternatively, the patient arrives with no or insufficient preparation and the physician manually clears the patient's colon with a colon preparation endoscope. Method 300 proceeds to step 312.

Step 312: Connecting Imaging Endoscope to Operator Console

In this step, a user, which may be a physician, nurse, or other assistant, attaches endoscope proximal connector 114 of imaging endoscope 110 to the side of operator console 122 and thereby makes all electrical and fluid connections to operator console 122. The user activates operator console 122. Method 300 proceeds to step 314.

Step 314: Mounting Fluid Source and Activating Operator Console

In this step, a user mounts fluid source 124 to operator console 122 and, subsequently, connects tubing 126, at one end, to the outlet of fluid source 124 and, at the opposite end, to a port of endoscope proximal connector 114, while, at the same time, passing a portion of tubing 126 within pump 128. The user then activates operator console 122. Method 300 proceeds to step 316.

Step 316: Selecting and Mounting Fluid Reservoir

In this step, a user selects a fluid reservoir 130 that contains the type of liquid required for the medical procedure, such as a bowel softener in the case of a colonoscopy procedure and, subsequently, mounts fluid reservoir 130 within cavity 216 of endoscope proximal connector 114. Method 300 proceeds to step 318.

Step 318: Intubating the Patient

In this step, under the control of operator console 122 and by using the controls of handheld manual controller 116, the physician intubates the patient, by introducing and advancing endoscope distal tip 120 of imaging endoscope 110 into a body cavity of the patient, until such time that the area of the colon to be cleared may be visualized upon video display of operator console 22. Method 300 proceeds to step 320.

Step 320: Flushing the Colon

In this step, under the control of operator console 122 and by using the controls of handheld manual controller 116, the user alternately flushes and aspirates the patient's colon, by alternately activating the bolus wash and/or jet wash function and a suction function of multi-fluid endoscopic system 100. In doing so, the user controls the activation of pump 128, one or more pinch valves 214, and a suction/vacuum source (not shown) via the controls of handheld manual controller 116. Method 300 proceeds to step 322.

Step 322: Is Colon Clear?

In this decision step, the user visualizes the colon by using the imaging electronics at endoscope distal tip 120, in combination with the video display of operator console 122, to determine whether the bolus wash and/or jet wash of step 320 is effective in breaking down the stool in the patient's colon and, thus, renders the colon clear. If yes, method 300 proceeds to step 326. If no, method 300 proceeds to step 324.

Step 324: Injecting Bowel Softener

In this step, under the control of operator console 122 and by using the controls of handheld manual controller 116, the user injects a bowel softener to help emulsify the stool by controlling pinch valve 220, such that the bowel softener within fluid reservoir 130 that is mounted within endoscope proximal connector 114 is released and, thus, passes into the patient's colon via fluid channel 218 of endoscope proximal shaft 112. Method 300 returns to step 320.

Step 326: Completing the Colonoscopy Procedure

In this step, under the control of operator console 122 and by using the controls of handheld manual controller 116, the user completes the colonoscopy procedure which may include such steps as selecting another type of liquid for installing into fluid reservoir 130 within cavity 216 of endoscope proximal connector 114. Such fluids include, for example, an India ink for marking a tissue site. Method 300 then ends.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-fluid endoscopic system 400 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention. Multi-fluid endoscopic system 400 includes imaging endoscope 110 that is connected to operator console 122 via endoscope proximal connector 114, as described in reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Multi-fluid endoscopic system 400 includes pump 128, as described in reference to FIG. 1. Multi-fluid endoscopic system 400 further includes a plurality of fluid sources 410, e.g., a fluid source 410 a, 410 b, and 410 c, that feed tubing 126 via a tubing subassembly 412 that brings together the tubing from the separate fluid sources 410 to a common line, i.e., tubing 126, and wherein each fluid source 410 has an associated pinch valve that allows liquid to reach the pump 128. Each fluid source 410 may take the form of a rigid vessel or a bladder with a capacity of, for example, up to one liter of fluid. Each fluid source 410 may be a refillable vessel, or alternatively, each fluid source 410 is sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture, such that it is considered a single-use, disposable item.

In operation and with reference to FIG. 4, pressurized fluids are delivered along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120 on demand, under the control of electronics located within operator console 122, in similar fashion as described in reference to the endoscopic system 100 of FIG. 1. However, the inclusion of multiple fluid sources 410 in the endoscopic system 100 allows multiple fluid types, such as saline, irrigation liquids, medication, or dyes, to be delivered, singly or mixed with one another, to imaging endoscope 110, under the control of operator console 122 and in combination with handheld manual controller 116 for controlling pump 128 and the pinch valves of tubing sub-assembly 412. Furthermore, endoscope proximal connector 114 may include multiple fluid channels 212 and fluid reservoir 130, as described in reference to FIG. 2 or, optionally, may include a greater or lesser number of fluid channels 212 and not include fluid reservoir 130.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a multi-fluid endoscopic system 500 in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention. Multi-fluid endoscopic system 500 includes imaging endoscope 110 that is connected to operator console 122 via endoscope proximal connector 114, as described in reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. Multi-fluid endoscopic system 400 also includes multiple fluid sources 410, e.g., fluid source 410 a, 410 b, and 410 c, as described in reference to FIG. 4. However, instead of including tubing sub-assembly 412, each fluid source 410 has its own dedicated length of tubing 126 and dedicated pump 128 that feed endoscope proximal connector 114 of imaging endoscope 110. For example, fluid source 410 a is fluidly connected to endoscope proximal connector 114 via a length of tubing 126 a that passes through pump 128 a, fluid source 410 b is fluidly connected to endoscope proximal connector 114 via a length of tubing 126 b that passes through pump 128 b, and fluid source 410 c is fluidly connected to endoscope proximal connector 114 via a length of tubing 126 c that passes through pump 128 b, as shown in FIG. 5. Each fluid source 410, therefore, has its own dedicated fluid channel 212 and pinch valve 214 within endoscope proximal connector 114. The dedicated fluid channels 212 pass along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120.

In operation and with reference to FIG. 5, pressurized fluids are delivered along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120 on demand, under the control of electronics located within operator console 122, in similar fashion as described in reference to multi-fluid endoscopic system 100 of FIG. 1. However, the inclusion of multiple fluid sources 410 in multi-fluid endoscopic system 100 allows multiple fluid types, such saline, irrigation liquids, medication, or dyes, to be delivered via a dedicated fluid channel 212 to imaging endoscope 110, under the control of operator console 122, in combination with handheld manual controller 116, for controlling pumps 128 a, 128 b, and 128 c and associated pinch valves 214 a, 214 b, and 214 c within endoscope proximal connector 114. Optionally, endoscope proximal connector 114 may not include fluid reservoir 130.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of handheld manual controller 116 that includes a local fluid reservoir in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 shows that handheld manual controller 116 includes a controller housing 610 formed of a suitably lightweight, rigid material, such as molded plastic. Controller housing 610 is electrically, mechanically, and fluidly connected, at one end, to endoscope proximal shaft 112 and, at an opposite end, to endoscope distal shaft 118. Mounted within controller housing 610 of handheld manual controller 116 are a plurality of control buttons 612 that allow the physician to manipulate the functions of the endoscope, such as taking a picture, activating light, activating water, activating air, or activating suction at endoscope distal tip 120. A plurality of rotary knobs 614 control the articulation of endoscope distal tip 120 for advancing into the patient, and a working channel access port 616 allows the insertion of a therapeutic or diagnostic instrument into the working channel of endoscope distal shaft 118.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, handheld manual controller 116 provides an alternative to having a fluid reservoir located within endoscope proximal connector 114, such as fluid reservoir 130, as described in reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. In this example, handheld manual controller 116 further includes an integrated fluid reservoir 618 that has an associated fluid activation button 620, which provides a conveniently located mechanism for activating the delivery of fluid from integrated fluid reservoir 618. Integrated fluid reservoir 618 is described in more detail in reference to FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of an exemplary integrated fluid reservoir 618 that is installed, optionally, within handheld manual controller 116. Integrated fluid reservoir 618 includes a fluid bladder 710 surrounded on at least two opposite sides by a water bladder 712. The contacting surfaces between fluid bladder 710 and water bladder 712 are represented by a pressure interface 714. The combination of fluid bladder 710 and water bladder 712 that form integrated fluid reservoir 618 is installed into a recessed cavity within controller housing 610 of handheld manual controller 116.

Fluid bladder 710 is fluidly connected to a fluid channel that is fed into and along the full length of endoscope proximal shaft 112 to endoscope distal tip 120. Fluid bladder 710 is in the form of a disposable, soft, flexible bladder that is easily detachable from within controller housing 610. Integrated fluid reservoir 618 includes a pinch valve 716 at the outlet of fluid bladder 710 to control the flow of fluid therefrom. Water bladder 712 is also in the form of a soft, flexible bladder; however, water bladder 712 is permanently installed within controller housing 610. Integrated fluid reservoir 618 includes a pinch valve 718 at the inlet/outlet of water bladder 712 to control the flow of fluid therethrough.

The capacity of liquid held within fluid bladder 710 is relatively small, compared with the capacity of fluid source 124 or fluid sources 410. Fluid bladder 710 may be sized, for example, to hold a small quantity of irrigation liquids, contrast media, medication, or dyes for marking tissue. An access door (not shown) may be included within controller housing 610 of handheld manual controller 116 for installing or removing fluid bladder 710 as needed before, after, or during a medical procedure.

Integrated fluid reservoir 618 takes advantage of the supply of, for example, water passing through handheld manual controller 116 from, for example, fluid source 124 of the endoscopic system 100 or fluid sources 410 of the endoscopic systems 400 and 500. More specifically, the flow of water is able to pass in or out of water bladder 712 and, therefore, cause water bladder 712 to expand or contract. When water bladder 712 is expanded, pressure is created against fluid bladder 710 at the pressure interface 714. As a result, a pressure mechanism is created, and pressurized fluid is forced out of fluid bladder 710 and down the fluid channel of endoscope distal shaft 118 and delivered to endoscope distal tip 120. In operation, the user activates the pressure mechanism created by the combination of fluid bladder 710 and water bladder 712 via fluid activation button 620, which activates any associated pump (not shown) and controls pinch valves 716 and 718 that enable the flow of, for example, water into water bladder 712 and fluid from fluid bladder 710.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the method steps of method 300 may be adapted easily to apply to any of the various medical procedures that use various types of fluid sources, such as shown in FIGS. 1 through 7. For example, fluid source 124, fluid reservoir 130, fluid sources 410, and integrated fluid reservoir 618, as described in reference to the endoscopic systems 100, 400, and 500 of the present invention, provide the user with the flexibility of changing fluids either in advance of a procedure or on-the-fly as needed, instead of relying on fixed fluid sources only. Furthermore, the arrangement of fluid sources, pumps, and valves within the endoscopic systems 100, 400, and 500 of the present invention provide a controlled fluid delivery′ rate and a controlled way of mixing fluids.

FIG. 8 shows yet another alternative embodiment of a fluid delivery system for an endoscope. An endoscopic system 100 includes an imaging endoscope 110 having a handheld manual controller 116 that is used by the physician to operate the endoscope and to steer the endoscope distal tip 120. The proximal end of the endoscope includes a connector 800 that is releasably secured to a reusable console 820. As will be described in further detail below, the connector 800 supplies liquids to various lumens in the endoscope in order to perform such functions as bolus wash, jet wash, lens wash, as well as providing vacuum and insufflation. The connector 800 is fluidly coupled to a reservoir 810 including a liquid such as water or saline for delivery to the patient. The connector 800 also includes a U-shaped loop of tubing 830 which engages the rollers of a peristaltic pump 840 for providing fluid pressure to the liquid in the reservoir 810 such that it can be selectively delivered to the lumens of endoscope to perform the desired tasks. The connector 800 is also connected via a tube to a vacuum collection jar 850 that captures retrieved aspirated liquids, debris, tissue samples, etc., from the endoscope.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate further detail of one embodiment of the proximal connector 800. In the example shown, the connector 800 is made from a molded housing having a front and rear half that are joined to a molded fluid manifold. The connector 800 is sufficiently inexpensive to manufacture such that it can be a disposable item. However, the connector design could also be made to withstand repeated disinfection procedures that are performed with reusable endoscopes.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the proximal connector 800 includes a pair of ports 860, 862 that receive water from and return water to the fluid reservoir 810 shown in FIG. 8. The reservoir is secured to the ports 860, 862 with a pair of retaining detents 870, 872 that engage cooperating elements on the reservoir. The proximal connector 800 also includes one or more ergonomic hand grips 880 that facilitate the insertion and removal of the proximal connector 800 from the console 820. As shown in FIG. 9B, the proximal connector 800 includes a vacuum port 890 that is connected by a flexible tubing (not shown) to the vacuum collection jar 850. The U-shaped tubing 830 receives fluid from the fluid input port 860 and delivers it under pressure to a fluid manifold tube (not shown) within the connector.

The rear surface of the connector 800 is shown in FIG. 9C. The rear surface includes one or more bosses 900, 902, 904 that are received on corresponding guide pegs (not shown) on the console 820 in order to aid in the placement of the proximal connector on the console. In addition, the proximal connector 800 also includes a number of valve spools 910, 912, 914, 916 that are selectively actuated by an electromagnetic, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other actuator types in order to direct fluids within the manifold to various lumens in the endoscope. An electrical connector 930 is seated within an outwardly extending rim 932 on the rear surface of the proximal connector 800. The connector 930 serves to connect electrical components within the endoscope to a corresponding electrical connector on the console.

FIG. 10A illustrates the internal components of the proximal connector 800. The proximal connector includes a manifold 920 including a number of ports 922, 924, 926 that are activated by valve spools to selectively deliver pressurized liquid to various lumens of the endoscope. In the embodiment shown, the port 922 delivers liquid for the bolus wash in the endoscope, a port 924 delivers liquid for a lens wash and a port 926 delivers liquid for a jet wash.

The proximal end of the endoscope shaft fits within a receiving portion 940 of the proximal connector 800. The receiving portion 940 includes a number of ribs 950 that retain the proximal end of the shaft such that it cannot be easily pulled from the connector 800. In one embodiment, the receiving portion includes an anti-rotation boss 952 that extends through a hole in the endoscope shaft such that the shaft cannot be rotated within the connector.

A cover 960 is placed over the rear surface of electrical connector 930 to secure the connector 930 with the rear surface of the connector and to act as a splash guard. As is best shown in FIG. 10B, the circuit board 930 is held to the rear surface of the connector 800 behind a lip of the outwardly extending rim 932 on the rear surface of the connector 800. The rim has an opening that exposes the contacts on the connector and a lip that is sized to be smaller than the connector 930. The cover 960 has an outwardly extending rim 962 that fits within the rim 932 in order to compress the circuit board against the inside surface of the outer rim 932 when the cover 960 is secured to the rear surface of the proximal connector 800.

A series of molded channels 970 operate to guide the various tubes or lumens in the endoscope to the ports 922, 924, and 926 that provide fluids to the endoscope as well as a tube that it is connected to. A port 930 provides insufflation gas to the endoscope.

The proximal connector 800 also includes a four-way port 980. The port 980 directs fluids and air/vacuum to various lumens within the proximal connector 800. The port 980 includes a port 982 that is oriented generally in line with the endoscope and is connected to a working channel lumen of the endoscope (not shown). A port 984 extends in a direction perpendicular to the port 982 and in the embodiment shown is connected via a tube (not shown) to the port 922 that supplies water to the port 982 for a bolus wash.

A port 986 is generally in line with the port 982 and is fluidly coupled by a tube (not shown) to a bolus wash overpressure valve 990 as will be explained in further detail below. In addition, the port 980 includes a fourth port (not shown) positioned in line with the working channel and beneath the port 986 that is coupled by a tube (not shown) to a vacuum port (also not shown).

FIG. 11A illustrates further detail of the manifold 920 within the proximal connector. In the embodiment shown, the manifold is molded as a separate piece and is joined to front and rear halves of the proximal connector 800. The manifold 920 includes a common tube 1000 which is fluidly connected to each of the ports 922, 924 and 926. In addition, the tube 1000 includes a port 1002 that continually delivers a cooling liquid through a lumen to a heat exchanger (not shown) within the distal tip of the endoscope in order to cool the illumination devices. In addition, the manifold 920 includes a port 1004 which receives the cooling liquid back from the heat exchanger and supplies it to the port 862 for return to the liquid reservoir.

FIG. 11B illustrates how the U-shaped flexible tubing 830 is secured within two ports 832, 834 on the top of the manifold. The port 832 is fluidly coupled to the port 860 that receives liquid from the fluid reservoir. The port 834 is fluidly coupled to the tube 1000 in the manifold 920. The tubing 830 is preferably made of propylene or other flexible material that can be pressurized by the rollers peristaltic pump 840 on the console 820.

FIG. 12 illustrates further detail of the valve spools within the ports connected to the manifold. As indicated above, the manifold includes a tube 1000 that contains a pressurized liquid to deliver to each of the various ports. In each of the liquid ports, for example, port 922, liquid within the tube 1000 flows through a cylinder 1010 having an opening 1012 that fluidly connects the cylinder 1010 with the tube 1000. The cylinder 1010 has a first diameter in the space between the port 922 and the tube 1000 and a larger diameter in a region 1016 occupying the remainder of the cylinder. A generally cylindrical valve spool, such as valve spool 916, is slidably received within the cylinder 1010. The valve spool includes a pair of O-rings 1018, 1020. The O-ring 1020 has a smaller diameter that is received within the smaller diameter section 1014 of the cylinder 1010. Moving the O-ring 1018 into the smaller diameter section 1014 seals the port 922 from receiving fluids from the tube 1000. Conversely, retracting the valve spool in the cylinder 1010 creates a fluid path between the tube 1000 and the port 922 when the O-ring 1018 is below the port 922 as shown in FIG. 12. At the transition of the larger and smaller diameters of the cylinder, the cylinder is chamfered at an area 1026 to prevent the O-ring 1018 from becoming sheared as the valve spool assembly is moved in and out of the cylinder 1010. In one embodiment of the invention, the chamfer is set at approximately 30 degrees.

The valve spool also includes a notched section 1020 in which a corresponding tab 1022 from the rear half of the proximal connector is fitted thereby retaining the valve spool in the manifold 920. Finally, the valve spool includes a stepped portion 1024 of a smaller diameter that allows the spool to be grasped by an actuator to move the valve spool in and out of the cylinder 1010.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate the vacuum valve assembly within the manifold. The vacuum assembly includes a vacuum port 1050 that is connected by a tube (not shown) to a port on the four-way port 980 that is generally in line with the working channel lumen of the endoscope. The valve assembly includes a valve spool 910 having a construction similar to that described above, which is selectively moved by an actuator to provide fluid communication between the vacuum port 1050 and the port 890 that is coupled to the vacuum collection jar. FIG. 13A also shows the low pressure bolus wash bypass port 990 that is fluidly connected to the vacuum port 890. If a bolus wash is applied while the physician has a tool in the working channel or while the working channel is blocked, liquid supplied from the manifold will open a valve in the low pressure bolus wash bypass port 990. By entering the bypass port 990, the working channel is prevented from becoming pressurized with a liquid that may splash onto a physician or their assistant.

Further detail of the low pressure bolus wash bypass valve is shown in FIG. 14. The bypass port 990 includes an insert 1060 that secures a ball valve 1070 and biasing spring 1080 in the port 990. The insert 1060 has a lip that mates with the surface of the ball valve 1070 in the port 990 by virtue of pressure from the spring 1080. Once the pressure of the bolus wash liquid in the port 990 overcomes the spring force of the spring 1080, the ball valve 1070 is opened thereby allowing passage of liquid through the insert 1060 and port 990 to the vacuum port 890. Also shown in FIGS. 13B and 14, the manifold also includes a high pressure bypass valve including a ball valve 1100 and spring 1110 that operate to relieve pressure in the manifold tube 1000. If pressure within the tube 1000 exceeds the spring force of the spring 1110, ball valve 1100 is forced open thereby opening a fluid channel between the manifold tube 1000 and the low pressure side of the tubing 830. In some embodiments of the invention, it may be necessary to employ a metal seating ring within the cylinder of the high pressure bypass valve in order to provide proper mating seal between the cylinder and the ball valve 1100.

As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, the present invention is not limited to the configurations of endoscopic systems as described and shown in reference to FIGS. 1 through 15. For example, the present invention may be used with an endoscope that is steered by actuators in the console in response to commands received from a user input device such as a joystick or other mechanism. Furthermore, the manifold 620 in the connector 800 may also be used to deliver liquid from alternate fluid source either in the proximal connector or the endoscope such as is shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any arrangement or combination of the fluid delivery mechanisms disclosed herein or others are possible, without departing from the scope of this invention. 

1-31. (canceled)
 32. A connector for fluidly connecting a lumen in an endoscope to a fluid source, the connector comprising: a passage configured to retain liquid under pressure for delivery to a lumen in an endoscope; a port fluidly connected to the passage; a valve configured to fluidly connect the port to the fluid source, wherein the valve is movable via an actuator; and a flexible tubing configured to receive fluid from the fluid source and deliver fluid under pressure to the passage.
 33. The connector of claim 32, wherein the flexible tubing includes a first end and a second end, each of the first end and the second end being connected to a housing of the connector.
 34. The connector of claim 33, wherein the flexible tubing is configured to mate with a pump configured to pressurize fluid in the flexible tubing.
 35. The connector of claim 32, wherein the passage is fluidly connected to a cooling port, the cooling port configured to be continually open and supply liquid to the endoscope.
 36. The connector of claim 32, wherein the connector is connected to a proximal connector of the endoscope.
 37. The connector of claim 36, wherein the passage is fluidly connected to the lumen in the endoscope via a tube disposed within the proximal connector.
 38. The connector of claim 37, wherein the proximal connector includes at least two fluid connections, the at least two fluid connections configured to mate with the fluid source.
 39. The connector of claim 38, wherein each of the at least two fluid connections includes a retaining detent configured to engage a cooperating member on the fluid reservoir.
 40. The connector of claim 32, wherein the actuator is remote from the endoscope.
 41. A connector at a proximal end of a shaft for connecting the proximal end of the shaft to a fluid reservoir, the connector comprising: a passage configured to retain liquid under pressure; a selectively closeable port fluidly connected to a lumen in the shaft to receive fluid from the fluid reservoir, wherein the selectively closeable port is associated with a valve configured to selectively connect the lumen to the liquid under pressure retained by the passage; an open port configured to continually deliver liquid from the passage to the shaft; and a receiving port configured to continually receive liquid from the shaft and supply the liquid to the fluid reservoir.
 42. The connector of claim 41, further comprising a flexible tubing configured to receive fluid from the fluid reservoir and deliver fluid to the passage.
 43. The connector of claim 42, wherein the flexible tubing includes a first end and a second end secured to the connector.
 44. The connector of claim 43, wherein the flexible tubing is configured to mate with a pump that pressurizes fluid in the flexible tubing.
 45. The connector of claim 42, wherein the passage includes a high pressure bypass valve that opens to relieve pressure in the passage.
 46. The connector of claim 41, wherein the connector includes a bolus wash bypass valve configured to divert liquid from the passage away from a working channel lumen if the working channel is not open.
 47. The connector of claim 41, wherein the passage includes a four-way port configured to connect a working channel of the endoscope, a bolus wash port on the passage, a bolus wash bypass port, and a vacuum port.
 48. A connector at the proximal end of the shaft for connecting the proximal end of the shaft to a fluid reservoir, the connector comprising: a passage configured to retain liquid under pressure; a selectively closeable port fluidly connected to the lumen in the shaft to receive fluid from the fluid reservoir, wherein the selectively closeable port is associated with a valve configured to selectively connect the lumen to the liquid under pressure retained by the passage; and a flexible tubing configured to receive fluid from the fluid reservoir and deliver fluid to the passage.
 49. The connector of claim 48, wherein the flexible tubing includes a first end and a second end secured to the connector.
 50. The connector of claim 49, wherein the flexible tubing is configured to mate with a pump that pressurizes fluid in the flexible tubing.
 51. The connector of claim 48, wherein the passage includes a high pressure bypass valve that opens to relieve pressure in the passage. 